On the ground, champagne and orange was passed around.  We could take our pick, or request something different.  As the boarding continued, a cart was brought around offering a choice of varying newspapers.  An amenity kit provided for everyone contained a sleep mask, ear plugs, socks, toothbrush and toothpaste, and mouthwash.

We could snuggle in for take off with our comforter and pillow, but had to wait till we were up in the air to recline our seats.  One way the seats were like big, comfy, lounger-style chairs, and on the return they were the pod-type of seats that reclined to a nearly flat position.  Of course, once we were in the air we could also take out the on-demand video program full of movies, music, television programming and games.

Settling in for the inflight service, we were served another beverage of our choice, and a small bit of munchies to go with it.  On the way home this was some warm mixed nuts.  Refills were offered frequently.

For wine lovers there was a selection of two whites, both from California, and two reds, one from Australia and the other French.  I chose a French Medoc and was please with my selection.  A California sparkling wine was also available.

Now, for the meal itself.  Here was the menu:

First Course:  Grilled Shrimp, Carrot and Ginger Soup, and a Fresh Seasonal Salad.  The shrimp was tasty and moist, the salad greens crisp and served with a balsamic and oil dressing, and while I didn’t care for the soup, it was a hit with others.

Main Course:  There were four selections to choose from, Roasted Chicken Breast, New York Strip Steak, Rigatoni Pasta, and Roast Beef and Smoked Salmon.  I chose the Roasted Chicken Breast, which was served with balsamic onions and a blue cheese sauce, with mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach on the side.  The chicken was a tad on the dry side, but still flavorful.  Onions and mashed potatoes were quite nice, and the spinach was still fresh (not wilted or soggy), on the crisp side, and flavorful.

Dessert Course:  Ice Cream Sundaes with a choice of toppings and a cookie.  You could also opt for a cheese course if you didn’t want something sweet.  Two Dessert wines were also offered.

After lunch, yes this was lunch, people settled in to sleep, work, or relax.  Drinks were replenished regularly, and after a bit warm cookies were passed out.

About an hour and a half before landing, a second, lighter meal was served.  I chose the Grilled Chicken and Goat Cheese salad.  It was a generous selection of crisp greens, topped with dried fruit and walnuts.  Bread sticks and fruit were on the side.  The other choice was a hot Ham & Swiss Cheese Sandwich.

I ate well, had good wine, followed by lots of water to keep hydrated, and while there were a few little glitches with my sleeping pod, I managed to settle in quite nicely.

The flight time between Rome and New York’s JFK is about 8 hours.  It was well worth cashing in some points to get a lot of extra leg room, some nice amenities, and a decent meal.

Photo credit: Dan.. @flickr

Post from: Fly Away Cafe

But it’s not working!  My loyalty is currently up for grabs!

Why?  Because I’m getting tired of never being able to use my miles. 

I’m planning a trip to Italy, and wanted to use miles to either get a business class seat or to upgrade to business.  No can do!  There is not one available business class seat available on any of several flights on several airlines on several dates.  Not a one!

But, if I want to buy an economy ticket at an upgradable fare – a fare that’s in excess of a fully refundable economy ticket and roughly 2 1/2 times the best available fare – well, then, I’m welcome to use miles to upgrade.  This upgradeable fare is only a couple hundred dollars less than buying a business class ticket.  Oh yeah – did I mention that I’d have to use lots and lots of miles to get that upgrade even after paying that much much.  And when I say lots and lots, I mean an upgrade is going to cost me (in miles) the equivalent of a round trip ticket.

I understand supply and demand.  And I understand not wanting to give away something when you can sell it.  While I don’t like the higher mileage priced awards with “no blackout travel dates” it would be easier to swallow if those were actually available.  I couldn’t even find business travel options at these premium mileage rates.  I’d use the miles!

Frustrated?  Who me?

I’m going looking for an airline and partners who understand that my loyalty can be bought.  The price is simply having a mileage plan that allows me to use my miles.  My loyalty can be bought!

What buys your loyalty to a frequent flyer program?  Please leave a comment, and be sure to take the poll in the side bar.

Photo credit:  SXC

Post from: Fly Away Cafe